As the moment of death approaches, which of the following does the nurse encourage the family to do?

• A. Hold the patient's hand and speak to them, even if they appear unresponsive
• B. Refrain from touching the patient to prevent discomfort
• C. Avoid expressing emotions in front of the patient
• D. Leave the room to give the patient privacy

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the psychological and emotional needs of a patient who is nearing death, recognizing that sensory awareness may still be present even if the patient appears unresponsive.
2. Recognize that physical touch, such as holding the patient's hand, can provide comfort and reassurance to both the patient and their family during this critical time.
3. Acknowledge the importance of communication; speaking to the patient can help maintain a connection and offer emotional support, regardless of the patient's responsiveness.
4. Consider the impact of family members' emotions; expressing feelings in a supportive way can be beneficial rather than avoiding emotions, as it fosters authenticity and connection.
5. Conclude that encouraging the family to hold the patient's hand and speak to them aligns with best practices in end-of-life care, promoting comfort and emotional presence.